Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s Statement Accepting Her Re-Election As DG Of WTO

The Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has said her re-election on Friday was a privilege to continue serving and delivering results.

Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was re-elected unopposed for the WTO making her the first black person and the first black woman to be elected and re-elected for the position of DG of the organization.

In her acceptance speech for the second term that will start from 1st September 2025, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala promised to deliver results that would improve the lives of people all over the world.

It read: “I am deeply honoured by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 Members. It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term.

“In recent years, the WTO has played a vital role in helping Members navigate pressing global challenges, including the pandemic, conflict, and heightened geopolitical tensions. I commend Members for their hard work and determination in achieving progress despite unprecedented levels of uncertainty and rapid economic shifts.

“As we look ahead, I remain firmly committed to delivering results that matter—results that ultimately improve the lives of people around the world. By promoting trade as a driver of economic growth and resilience, the WTO will continue to provide a collaborative platform for Members to address shared global challenges.

“I am deeply committed to working alongside the talented and dedicated staff of the WTO to build a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based multilateral trading system that benefits all.“